Casting for Change: Live Well Kalkaska Makes Waves at the 2026 Trout Festival

The annual National Trout Festival has long been a cornerstone of the Kalkaska community. Dating back to 1935, this beloved tradition began as a way to celebrate the region’s rich fishing heritage and has since grown into a multi-day event filled with parades, entertainment, and the always-popular flea market. Over the decades, it has become more than just a festival, it’s a gathering place where local organizations join flea market vendors and make a difference.

Once again, this year, the Live Well Kalkaska Substance Free Coalition proudly took part in the 2026 Trout Festival by hosting a Prevention Table during the annual flea market. With a vibrant purple flag flying high above their canopy, community members could easily spot the coalition’s presence and stop by to learn more about substance misuse prevention efforts in Kalkaska County.

Over the years, the coalition has become a familiar and trusted part of the community; a small but dedicated group committed to supporting healthy youth, strong families, and a safer community for all. Their presence at Trout Fest continues to grow, both in visibility and impact. This year, the coalition also expanded its reach by inviting community partners to share their space, allowing for even more outreach and education opportunities. Partners included Catholic Human Services, 217 Recovery, and Chain of Recovery, all working together to connect individuals and families with valuable resources.

A highlight of this year’s event was the incredible involvement of local students. Fourteen Kalkaska-area students volunteered their time to assist at the coalition tent. These students played a key role in engaging with community members, offering Naloxone training, and sharing valuable prevention resources. Representation came from across the region, including Crawford District #1, Forest Area Middle and High School, Kalkaska Middle School, Kalkaska High School, and the Kalkaska Alternative Program (KAP), which brought an especially strong group of nine student volunteers. Some of these students were also given vouchers for carnival wristbands as a thank you for their time and dedication. Their professionalism, enthusiasm, and willingness to step up as community leaders was something to be truly proud of.

Throughout the festival, the coalition made a meaningful impact by putting important resources directly into the hands of community members, distributing 33 Narcan kits to individuals attending the flea market, 11 marijuana lock bags to Kalkaska parents, and numerous Deterra bags for safe medication disposal. Each interaction created an opportunity to educate, empower, and equip individuals with tools to make safer choices and support those around them.

The Live Well Kalkaska Substance Free Coalition’s presence at Trout Fest is more than just a booth, it’s a reflection of a community coming together with a shared purpose. As the festival continues to honor tradition, it also creates space for progress, awareness, and hope for the future.

Together, Kalkaska is not just celebrating its past, but actively building a healthier tomorrow.